Ohavi Zedek Synagogue

Ohavi Zedek Synagogue is Vermont's oldest and largest synagogue. It is an open, diverse, and vibrant congregation welcoming all people regardless of background. Its community numbers over 300 families who espouse Conservative, Reform, Reconstruction, or Renewal Judaism. The congregation was founded in 1885 by Lithuanian immigrants. At that time, only 18 families were members.

The congregation's first temple, which is still standing and as such is the oldest synagogue building in the state, was built in 1885. It was remodeled and later expanded in 1928. It's architecture is a combination of Gothic and American architecture. Perhaps its most unique features is a women's gallery called a bimah. Given its importance to Burlington's Jewish history, the synagogue is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The congregation built its current temple in 1952, at which point some members, who wanted to stay, founded a new congregation called Ahavath Gerim. This congregation remains at the temple.